The next day at school

Krissy's heart raced the next morning as she prepared to leave for school. Every second she spent in front of the mirror second-guessing her choice of outfit felt like an eternity. But deep inside, a feeling of excitement bubbled up. She hoped that Principal Howard would like it.

When she stepped onto the school bus, an audible gasp was heard from some of the students. Her friends' jaws dropped, and murmurs filled the air. Krissy's cheeks flushed a bright shade of pink, but she kept her chin up, focusing on the vacant seat towards the back. Another girl in class, Lisa, met her halfway, a shocked expression on her face.

"Krissy!" Lisa exclaimed. "What are you wearing?"

"Just trying something new," Krissy replied with a shrug, her voice quivering slightly.

Throughout the day, it was evident her outfit was a topic of conversation. She thought that many of the boys watched her hungrily, seemingly seeing her for the first time in this revealing outfit, while many of the other girls gossiped and speculated.

Principal Howard nodded to her when he saw her in the hallway, but, he said nothing.

During lunch, a group of senior boys approached Krissy's table. The leader of the group, Jake, a popular jock known for his charm, gave her a once-over.

"You're looking pretty good today, Krissy," he commented with a smirk.

"Thank you, Jake," she replied, blushing profusely.

Jake smiled while his gaze lingered on the embarrassed girl, gazing at her like a predator looks at a wounded animal.

"How about we talk later?" He asked and passed her a piece of paper with his number on it before leaving with his pack of cronies.